Milford State Park extends across 1,084 acres surrounding Milford Lake, the largest lake in Kansas. Located approximately 9 miles northwest of Junction City, the park experiences hot summers with temperatures averaging 90°F and cold winters dropping to 20°F. The landscape features rolling Flint Hills terrain with limestone outcroppings and tall grass prairie species that support horseback riding throughout several dedicated equestrian campgrounds.
What to do
Lakeside fishing spots: Primitive sites at Woodland Hills campground offer direct lake access for fishing. "Great spot to fish swim or boat. Set up tent in the dark and woke up to an amazing view," notes Christa C. about Woodland Hills — Milford State Park.
Kayak launching: Prairie View campground features sites with water frontage allowing visitors to launch kayaks directly from their campsites. Shannon G. reports that at Prairie View — Milford State Park, "We were able to launch our kayaks a few feet from our campsite which was nice. Each campsite was equipped with electric and water, a fire ring, and a picnic table."
Wildlife observation: Bird watching opportunities abound throughout the campgrounds. "We were able to see a few blue heron and a Golden and a bald eagle," mentions Shannon G. regarding their stay at Prairie View campground. Turkey vultures can be spotted at Cedar Point, where Shannon notes "this park has wildlife to view like the large flock of turkey vultures who live in the dead trees of cedar point."
What campers like
Spacious sites: Cedar Point offers generous camping areas for tent and hammock camping. According to Michelle S., "We were able to find a lovely primitive camp site for hammock camping!!!" at Cedar Point — Milford State Park.
Water views: Many sites at Eagle Ridge offer views of Milford Lake. Lisa S. remarks that there are "Big RV spots with great views" at Eagle Ridge — Milford State Park. These lakefront sites provide scenic vantage points for watching sunsets over the water.
Seasonal wildflowers: During late summer and early fall, wildflowers attract monarch butterflies. "My husband and I stayed in a site with beautiful trees and sunflowers growing all around us. The monarchs must have been migrating because they were all over the trees," shares Jessica C. about her experience at Randolph area of Tuttle Creek State Park.
What you should know
Weather preparedness: Prairie View campground has experienced flooding issues during heavy rain seasons. Crystal C. warns, "This campground is prone to lower sites flooding when rains are abundant... Currently there are less than 10 sites available at this location, road is barricaded and the waters are literally in the backyard of all sites as it has created a peninsula."
Facility limitations: Some campgrounds have restricted bathroom access following past flooding events. Michelle S. notes about Cedar Point, "Only complaint is that several of the restrooms were still closed due to a flood in 2019."
Insect protection: Bring appropriate bug spray when camping in summer months. Jessica C. advises visitors to Randolph — Tuttle Creek State Park, "Bring bug spray, as the mosquitoes and chiggers were biting!"
Tips for camping with families
Beach areas: Multiple campgrounds feature swimming beaches with amenities for children. Lisa S. mentions that at Eagle Ridge, "The beach area was small but nice. There is a medium sized playground near the swimming area."
Life jacket availability: Safety equipment is provided at some swimming areas. Shannon G. found that at Woodland Hills campground, "I think it's so neat how they have life jackets hanging in case you didn't bring any."
Water recreation: Splash pads supplement lake swimming options for families with young children. Kaylyn B. reports that at Prairie View, there are "Great activities to do in lake and a fun splash pad for the kids."
Tips from RVers
Full hookup options: Eagle Ridge campground offers complete utility connections for RVs. Lisa explains that "Eagle Ridge has full hook-ups" while noting its proximity to equestrian facilities with "horse pens located at the Eagle Ridge site."
Dump station access: For RVs without sewer hookups, alternative disposal options exist. Savannah advises at Woodland Hills, "There's a sewage dump station the next camping loop over (Hickory Hollow) if you can't stay at a space with a sewage hookup."
Site selection: Choose higher elevation sites during wet seasons to avoid flooding issues. Crystal C. recommends for equestrian camping near Fort Riley, Kansas: "Call ahead before visiting this park as a whole to check conditions. With limited locations for camping currently available you will be happier by checking in advance rather than coming and experiencing being turned away."
